Rats & Mice

Rodents are a problem throughout this state.  Although they are found more often in older homes and businesses, even homes in newer neighborhoods are now being invaded. 

The most common rodents in homes are Norway rats, roof rats and house mice. Rodents are attracted to a readily available food source and a comfortable place to nest. Common entry points in structures are gaps in the foundation or around pipes that enter into the house.  Rodents also get into homes through missing or poor-fitting crawl space doors, vent screens, and gaps under garage doors.  Mice can enter 1/4 inch openings and rats enter 1/2 inch openings.

WHY SHOULD I BE CONCERNED ABOUT RODENTS?

Rodents are filth associated and transmit disease.  Deer mice, which are common locally in rural areas can transmit the deadly Hanta Virus.  Rodents can damage wiring, start fires, and consume large quantities of pet, bird, or livestock food.  They also can spoil and contaminate human food.

HOW CAN I MAKE MY HOME LESS VULNERABLE TO RODENTS?

• Check your home for possible entry points and plug up or repair any problem areas.
• Don't leave pet food outside where rodents will have easy access to it.
• Clean up birdseed spills which can attract these pests.
• Use trash cans with tight-fitting lids, and empty them regularly.
• Do not feed wild animals like squirrels, raccoons or opossums.

Rats and mice Frequently Asked Questions

ARE RATS AND MICE A PROBLEM IN THIS AREA?

Rodents are a problem in all areas of this state. Although they may be found more often in older homes and businesses, even structures in newer neighborhoods are frequently invaded by rats and mice. The most common rodents in homes or businesses are Norway rats, roof rats and house mice.

WHAT ATTRACTS RATS AND MICE?

Rodents are attracted to a readily available food source and a comfortable place to nest. Many structures have gaps in the foundation that permit entry into or under the building. Rats and mice gain entry through missing or poor-fitting crawl space doors and vent screens. Gaps under garage doors are another access point. Major food attractions are pet foods, bird and squirrel food, fruit from fruit trees and berries.

HOW WILL I KNOW IF I HAVE A RODENT PROBLEM?

Rats and mice are rarely seen since they feed mainly at night. Some people hear scratching or scurrying sounds at night in their walls or attic. Others might open a cabinet or drawer to discover evidence of gnawing or a cache of food. But, the most common clue is finding rodent droppings.

ARE RODENTS DANGEROUS?

Generally, rodents will avoid direct contact with people, but the feces and urine of rodents can pose serious health risks. One species of mouse common in rural areas – the deer mouse – can carry Hantaviruses that can cause a deadly respiratory disease in humans.

WHAT SHOULD I DO IF I THINK MY HOME OR BUSINESS IS INFESTED WITH RODENTS?

Call Whitworth Pest Solutions at 253-845-1818 for information about our Rodent Control Program. Included in our program is an inspection to identify rodent entry points, food sources and harborage. We will conduct a trapping and/or baiting program depending on the situation.

WHY SHOULD I CALL YOU? CAN’T I JUST DO THE JOB MYSELF?

There’s more to rodent control than you might think. Before you attempt to handle the problem, ask yourself these questions:

• Do I know the species and habits of the rodents to be eliminated?
• Do I know the best techniques to use to eradicate them?
• Do I know where to place bait or traps to attract rodents, but not endanger pets and children or create odors from them dying in the building?

If you can’t answer “yes” to all these questions, then call us. We’ll do the job right.

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